PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 19, 2017 — (PRNewswire) — After a decade of research, including more than three years of writing, editing, design, photography, and illustration,
The Center for Art in Wood (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania), along with the Emil Milan Research Project (
emilmilan.org), and
Thoughtfull (Minneapolis, Minnesota) has launched a Kickstarter campaign to publish the highly anticipated biography of Emil Milan (American, 1922–1985) — a highly influential designer, artist, and craftsman who was a major contributor to the studio craft movement in the 1950s and 60s. Milan's signature designs of bird sculptures and fish- and leaf-shaped bowls, trays, and serving ware represent the very essence of midcentury modern design. The publication, Emil Milan Midcentury Master, is filled with history, stories, artifacts, and photographs — along with the largest collection of Milan's work, including dozens of his finest creations. The book also contains insight into the late artist's process, methods, and teaching practices.

The Kickstarter campaign launched on the morning of October 17, 2017 and was 90% funded in the first 24 hours. The project has been selected as a Kickstarter "Project We Love" — in the top 10% of all projects. This effort is fueled by a passionate group of Emil Milan students, devotees, and followers who aim to share Milan's story with a broad audience and elevate him to his rightful place in American art history.

Emil Milan stood with now legendary artists and designers like Wharton Esherick, Sam Maloof, Wendell Castle, Charles Eames, George Nakashima, and Bob Stocksdale (among others) in the most important exhibitions of fine craft in America. His wares were tailored for and sold in high-end retailers such as Hammacher Schlemmer, Saks Fifth Avenue, and the original Pottery Barn store in Manhattan. Milan was also a teacher, mentor, and role model for dozens of successful artists and woodworkers who found inspiration in his classes.

Emil Milan and his work were influential beyond measure and this publication fills an important void in midcentury modern art and design history.